So true. Over the years I did the math and realized I get in a good 4 hours of productive work a day. As in, without an open plan office and interuptions, I could get my work done in just 4 hours. But I'm there for 8+. Such a waste.
Age helps, too. Young people work far more than necessary, whereas older workers seem to know where to focus their energy. This might be why orgs hire younger people, perceiving more work. But it's the same 4 hours whether we look frantic or calm.
I love the "4th time" rule you mentioned, and it's right. You can cut out a lot of wasted/frantic time if you just focus on what your boss wants/needs.